Tragic Rest Stop Attack in Nebraska Leaves One Dead, One Critically Injured
A routine stop for a Missouri couple ended in horror when a 22-year-old man launched a deadly knife attack at a Nebraska rest area. Gary Weaver, 72, was killed, and his wife Mary, 71, remains in critical condition after the violent assault.
Elderly Couple Targeted During Interstate 80 Stop
Gary and Mary Weaver, from Eureka, Missouri, were travelling in their mobile home and paused at a rest area along Interstate 80 around 7 a.m. on Wednesday. According to the Hall County Sheriff’s Office, the couple was ambushed and suffered multiple stab wounds.
Gary died later at Grand Island Regional Hospital where an autopsy has been ordered. Mary is fighting for her life with serious injuries.
Suspect Caught After High-Speed Chase and River Crash
The attacker, 22-year-old James Thompson Jr. from Elyria, Ohio, fled the scene but was tracked down by Nebraska State Patrol. Officers tried to stop a vehicle matching his description, sparking a nail-biting chase that hit speeds of 120 mph.
The chase ended when Thompson’s vehicle drove off the interstate and plunged into the Platte River. A police dog helped locate the suspect about 30 minutes later.
Man Held on Murder, Attempted Murder & Robbery Charges
Thompson was arrested and booked in Hall County Jail facing multiple severe charges including first-degree murder, attempted first-degree murder, and robbery.
“Excellent teamwork by Troopers and Hall County Deputies to quickly locate and apprehend the suspect,” said Nebraska State Patrol in a statement. “Our hearts are with the two victims and their families.”
The investigation is ongoing as authorities piece together the tragic events at the rest stop.
